Brett Ostrum, vice-president of Microsoft in charge of the Surface product line, stated at the Snapdragon Summit — Qualcomm's annual event — that Microsoft is not planning to release a laptop to directly compete with Apple's new MacBook Neo. This comment was published on September 26 by Windows Central, a website that covers Windows-related news. The most affordable Surface laptops start at 1,259 euros, while the MacBook Neo is available for 799 euros. Ostrum explained that Microsoft has not sold gaming computers because its partners, such as Dell, HP, and Asus, already handle that market. He said the company has followed the same logic for more affordable laptops. "We have chosen to let OEMs offer cheaper devices," he said, referring to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), which are companies that build computers with Windows. Ostrum also noted that Microsoft had known about the upcoming MacBook Neo for some time and had heard feedback from journalists, resellers, and partners. However, he added, "We are not obligated to compete on every front." Microsoft has previously sold more affordable Surface laptops, such as the Surface Laptop Go, released in 2020, which was the first Surface model under 1,000 euros. However, the company has since moved away from this segment. On September 23, Microsoft unveiled the second generation of its Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch models, which start at 1,259 and 1,319 euros in France, respectively. According to Windows Central, Microsoft now categorizes all its Surface models as high-end. If someone wants a Windows laptop priced similarly to the MacBook Neo, they would need to look at models from Dell, HP, or Asus. Meanwhile, Microsoft is preparing a Surface event on October 7, where it is expected to reveal details about the Surface Laptop Ultra, a more premium model. The decision to focus on high-end devices comes as Microsoft continues to refine its Surface lineup. While the company has historically offered a range of laptops for different price points, recent models have shifted toward more expensive options. This strategy may reflect a broader industry trend where major tech companies are emphasizing premium products over budget alternatives. However, it also means that consumers seeking more affordable Windows laptops may have fewer options from Microsoft itself. Ostrum's comments suggest that Microsoft is not ruling out future competition with the MacBook Neo but is not currently prioritizing it. The company has instead chosen to focus on its existing product line and let other manufacturers handle the lower price range. This approach may continue as Microsoft prepares to unveil its latest Surface models, including the anticipated Surface Laptop Ultra.